Danielle

2.5 stars

Actual rating: 2.5

3.5 stars

Actual rating: 3.5

Re-read: this book still hits all the feels. In its honour I've created a new tag “favourite-of-favourites.” Enough said.—-Some books stand out in the “psy-changeling” series, and [b:Shards of Hope 17159943 Shards of Hope (Psy-Changeling, #14) Nalini Singh https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1414670964l/17159943.SY75.jpg 42797145] is one of them. If I am honest I only still follow this series for the well written romantic matches that are made in the fascinating world of psy and changelings. After a while, the political/detective elements becomes a little bitMainly because by the time you've reach book 14, you have seen enough defeated villains to know that this one will also be defeated at some point. What set this book's villain apart, for me, was how it chose their apprentice. Without giving away spoilers, my heart went out when I read about its manipulative plan and I was hooked.I went from reading its pov like this:to this:The main characters were also amazing. Some the tropes from the previous books were used, but the overall awesomeness of the characters made it possible to turn a blind eye to it. Zaira is strong, possessive, independent, fierce and surprisingly gentle. I appreciated how protective she was of our hero. And after reading [b:Branded by Fire 5628753 Branded by Fire (Psy-Changeling, #6) Nalini Singh https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1334968711l/5628753.SY75.jpg 4606059] where Riley had to learn to trust that Mercy can take care of herself, this book was so refreshing. “Sleep,” she whispered. “I'll keep you safe.” Aden never doubted Zaira's ability. This book embraced a pair that was equal to each other. They have different strengths and weaknesses, but Aden did not shield Zaira or treated her differently because she was female. He trusted and respected her strength, and accepted her faults and all. Even when she could not give all of herself. He would take her exactly as she was, because one thing was true, would always be true: “I am yours.” It was his turn to stop her words. “Just stay with me,” he said. “In any way you want.”“You deserve better.” Rough, broken words.“There is no one better than you.”“I'll be the best soldier you ever have,” she repeated in a shattered whisper.“I know.” It would have to be enough. Aden, in turn, is honest, loyal, strong, dedicated and selfless. “He [Aden] has no capacity to care for himself,” Vasic said. “He believes everyone else is more important and that's what makes him a great leader. But he needs someone to watch over him, to make sure he doesn't lose himself in his responsibilities.” And he has it in Zaira: ... her voice fierce, “I'll allow him [Aden] no arguments. I'm doing the looking after even if I have to tie him up.”